Trucking Careers OF America

Where Professional CDL Truckers FindGreat Class A Truck Driving Jobs

Truck Driver Qualifications FAQs

What is the age requirement to drive a truck?

The Department of Transportation’s minimum age requirement is 21 years of age. Many companies require a driver to be at least 23 years of age.

Do I have to take a Dept of Transportation physical?

Yes. The US Department of Transportation requires drivers to be able to pass a physical. Some of the areas it will cover are vision, blood pressure, and blood sugar. You MUST be able to pass a DOT physical on the first day of training or orientation.

Do have to take a Dept of Transportation drug screen?

Yes. The drug screen is a requirement of the DOT and will be administered on the first day of training or orientation. The drug screen can detect small traces of illegal drug use including marijuana, cocaine and other narcotics. You MUST be able to pass a DOT drug screen. You will also be randomly tested during your training and throughout your driving career.

Could my driving record prevent me from getting a truck driving job?

Yes. There are many factors that can prevent you from getting a truck driving job. We recommend that you get a copy of your MVR and have it on hand as you proceed. Certain factors, such
as the seriousness of a traffic offense or how long ago it occurred are evaluated by each company differently.

Company underwriting policies and guidelines can vary so we recommend that you talk with an industryspecialist first before you submit an application to a company or sign a contract for training school.

Do I have to have a drivers license to become a truck driver or get my CDL License?

Yes. You must hold a valid US Driver’s License for at least 12 months before you can attend CDL Class A training.

Do I have to speak English?

The US Department of Transportation states that a driver “must be able to read and speak the English language sufficiently to converse with the general public, to understand highway traffic signs and signals in the English language, to respond to official inquiries, and to make entries on reports and records.”

Do I have to be a US Citizen?

No, but if you are not currently a US Citizen, you do have to hold a valid Permanent Resident Card.

Why do you need my SS# on the application?

The U. S. Department of Transportation requires all truck driving job applicants to provide a valid Social Security # when completing the job application. In order to complete a background check
and employment history process, personal information such as your date of birth and Social Security number are required. This information is for criminal checks, motor vehicle reports
and employment verifications. Your personal information is kept secure and is not shared with any other party or company other than to a potential employer. Please read our Privacy Policy.